Best LGBTQ+-Friendly Jersey Shore Towns
12 towns across 4 counties
Best LGBTQ+-Friendly Jersey Shore Towns
NJ Shore Guide
The Jersey Shore has long been a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. These towns stand out for their inclusive atmosphere, vibrant queer communities, and businesses that celebrate diversity. From Asbury Park's legendary scene to quieter inclusive havens, find your place at the shore.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+-Friendly Towns
Asbury Park
monmouth County
Where Music Meets the Sea
- ✓Affordable beach badges ($7/day)
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
- ✓Known LGBTQ+ destination
Belmar
monmouth County
Something for Everyone
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Highlands
monmouth County
Twin Lights and Clam Bars
- ✓Free beaches - no badge required
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Long Branch
monmouth County
Historic Resort Reborn
- ✓Affordable beach badges ($6/day)
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Sea Bright
monmouth County
Narrow Strip, Big Views
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Bay Head
ocean County
Quiet Elegance on the Shore
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
More LGBTQ+-Friendly Towns
Point Pleasant Beach
ocean County
Family Fun on the Boardwalk
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Seaside Heights
ocean County
The Famous Jersey Shore Boardwalk
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Atlantic City
atlantic County
America's Playground with Free Beaches
- ✓Free beaches - no badge required
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Cape May
cape may County
America's Original Seaside Resort
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Sea Isle City
cape may County
Free Beach Wednesdays
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Wildwood
cape may County
Free Beaches & Retro Fun
- ✓Free beaches - no badge required
- ✓NJ Transit accessible
Book Your LGBTQ+ Getaway
Find the perfect accommodation in these lgbtq+-friendly towns.
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Planning Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers
When to Visit
Peak summer (July-August) offers the full shore experience. For fewer crowds, visit in June or September when weather is still excellent.
How to Get There
12 of these towns are accessible via NJ Transit from NYC or Philadelphia. If driving, expect heavy traffic on summer Friday afternoons.
Beach Badges
3 of these towns have completely free beaches. Others require beach badges ($5-15/day). Weekly and seasonal badges offer savings for longer stays.
Local Tip
Asbury Park's South End Beach is the unofficial LGBTQ+ beach. Pride events happen throughout summer—check local calendars for dates.
Beach Day Essentials
Must-haves for your shore trip.
Beach Chair
Lightweight, foldable, with backpack straps.
Beach Umbrella
UPF 50+ with sand anchor. Some NJ beaches require anchors.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the ocean. No oxybenzone.
Beach Cart / Wagon
Haul all your gear across the sand.
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